Family Day.

Some of our provinces are taking this day to give families a mid-winter break.  Students are off all week; some businesses are closed or have modified hours of service.  It is a nice touch for those of us who can take time for rest and recreation.

For Walter and I, school schedules don't really affect us.  Our children are all grown and gone from home.  We do work in an office setting part of the time and our mission's administrative office is closed for the day.  But we are home in Regina after a full week of meetings and administrative work in Prince Albert.  Walter spoke in a church on Sunday and then we drove the four hour commute in the afternoon.

So, here we are.  Home.  Together.  On Family Day.

Our family is also enjoying an extra day off:  

Daniel is going into his final week of first year apprenticeship course for air conditioning/HVAC up in Saskatoon.  He will be driving the four-hour journey from Weyburn sometime today, but at least he was able to have one more day in his own home with his lovely wife, Michaela.  We are proud of Daniel's dedication to training and accreditation in his trade.  We have prayed for them as it must be difficult to be apart for these past eight weeks.  They are troopers!

Mark and Amy are able to enjoy their day off together...Amy does not teach her music students on Mondays and Mark is in the off-season for his concrete work.  They both work hard and are constantly making improvements on their home.  This year they will celebrate their tenth anniversary with a special trip together.  Time flies!

Caylea has a wonderful week ahead.  Last fall she had her name drawn for a free retreat at Kerith Pines.  She will enjoy a modern suite, with fireplace and luxurious jet tub, plus all meals cooked and served for seven days.  The retreat includes up to seven other people, all folks serving in ministry.  The setting is in a lovely pine forest with groomed hiking trail, located in the Whiteshell Park in eastern Manitoba.  Our daughter has been serving for five full years with NCEM, and we are so glad she can enjoy this lovely getaway.  I bet the first thing she will do is find the hottub!

And what are Walter and I doing today?  Not much.  Less than that if possible!  We are eating whatever we want, whenever we want.  We are watching the Scotties Women's curling championship.  (I confess I have laundry on the go, and Walter picked up a new project to pursue - more details to follow!)  I am working on a 2,000 piece puzzle.  We may nap between curling draws.  After such a busy week, we are so ready for this restful day.

God is such a good heavenly Father!  We are living a blessed life - not without its challenges - but today I am mindful of this day off as a gift from the Lord.

Enjoy your day, whatever you are doing this February 20, 2023!